Former Notts County stars pay tribute to Derek Pavis

Several former Notts County stars have paid tribute to Derek Pavis, who passed away last month aged 87.

The former Magpies chairman, who has the west stand at Meadow Lane named in his honour, guided the Magpies through their most successful period in their recent history.

He also oversaw the redevelopment of the stadium before stepping aside after 13 years at the helm at the age of 70.

On Friday, Pavis was laid to rest in Nottingham, with hundreds of people paying their respects to him.

"He didn't beat around the bush," former defender and coach Michael Johnson is quoted as saying by the Nottingham Post.

"For my first contract I asked for £100 more and he said 'there's only so much meat on the bone, my lad'.

"He gave me my start in football though. I've got a lot to be thankful to him for.

"There was a lot of advice and a lot of wisdom. I remember travelling to an FA Cup game with him when I was coaching.

"He was full of stories and through them all it was clear how much he loved Notts County.

"It's a sad day, but hopefully a celebration of what he's done for a fantastic club."

Mark Draper said: "That was said to me many times! 'There's only so much meat on the bone'. Every time a contract was mentioned he'd say that.

"I think it became tongue in cheek by the end. He was in charge during a great time for the club and for me.

"Just look at how much the club progressed. The ground now is fantastic, we had the promotions and even with a relegation chucked in there, he achieved great things.

"Football has changed, but you can't take away the memories he leaves behind."

Dean Thomas reminisced: "The first time I met Derek was when he came to watch me play for Northampton. Neil Warnock dragged him down to watch me.

"I think I got sent off after 25 minutes but they still signed me! We got on great and had a respectful relationship.

"Towards the end when I got a bad knee injury he gave me a testimonial.

"He stuck by me. He's done great things for the club and we had great times.

"I'm grateful he let Warnock sign me. He mixed with the players well and was respected by everyone.

"One of his favourite sayings was 'there's only so much meat on the bone', in terms of negotiations. You'd ask for a figure and he'd say this is what you're getting.

"We had good times though. He's gone knowing that he's brought a lot of people in Nottingham a lot of pleasure."

Ian Richardson added: "He helped me personally with a property I wanted to buy. I've got fond memories of him.

"He was a chairman you could always go to for answers or help with problems, not just when it came to football, but man to man."

Share your memories of the great man Derek Pavis on the Pride of Nottingham forum.